Shanghai MSN Network Communications Technology Co Ltd, a joint venture between Microsoft and Shanghai Alliance Investment Ltd (SAIL), announced the launch of the MSN Mobile service in China yesterday.

MSN Mobile service is customized and localized by MSN especially for the Chinese market. The first of its services to be introduced is MSN mobile messaging that extends communication from personal computer (PC) to mobiles.

MSN mobile messaging makes it easier than ever for MSN Messenger customers to talk to friends or family who are not using their PCs.

Chinese MSN customers will be able to send instant messages to virtually any mobile phone number, even if the person they are sending to does not have a MSN Messenger account, with the recipient able to reply directly back to the PC.

"China is an important market for MSN and we're working to provide customized solutions that could adapt to local needs and environments," said Blake Irving, corporate vice-president in charge of MSN Communication Services and Member Platform Group of Microsoft.

A couple of months ago, Microsoft set up MSN Technologies in Beijing and Shanghai and a Mobile R&D base in Shenzhen. The service has been specifically developed by MSN Technologies and Shenzhen Mobile for the Chinese market

"We look forward to bringing a more innovative and integrated experience to Chinese users with those investments in technology innovation," Blake Irving said.

The launch of the MSN Mobile service is another example of MSN's commitment to providing innovative web-based services and integrated experience to Chinese customers.

(China Daily September 16, 2005)